You can apply for Pension Credit if you (or your partner) are aged over the female State Pension Age or within 4 months of that date.
There are a number of ways Pension Credit can be claimed:
By Phone
You can call the freephone Pension Credit application line on 0808 100 6165 and apply over the phone.
The line is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. The average application will take approximately 25 minutes to complete over the phone, depending on your circumstances. A family member can call on your behalf if you prefer but you must be present when the application is made.
Those with speech or hearing difficulties can apply by textphone on 0808 100 1165. If English is not your first language, you (or someone calling on your behalf) can arrange for an interpreter to help you apply.
Prepare
Have this information to hand:
- Your National Insurance Number(s)
- Your date of birth
- Your bank and savings details
- Information about non-state second pensions
- Details of your own and/or your partner's other income (if applicable)
- Details of housing costs, including your mortgage
Alternatively, an application pack can be obtained by calling the Pension Credit application line on 0808 100 6165.
On the Internet
You can now make an online application to Pension Credit if:
- you have already claimed your State Pension
- there are no children or young people included in your claim
You can apply online via this link.
Application forms are available online (PDF 253KB)
By Post
Postal applications can be obtained from:
Northern Ireland Pension Centre
PO Box 42
Limavady
BT49 4AN
Backdating Claims
When you apply for Pension Credit, you may be eligible also to receive payment backdated up to 3 months before your application (it used to be 12 months).
Please be aware, though, that backdating of Pension Credit does not happen automatically - you must request this. Section 11 of the written application form (PDF 253KB) applies to backdating but if you are telephoning, you should be asked the date from which you what the claim to begin. Make sure, if applicable, you tell them it is 3 months prior to application.